DSL details removal‑fill permit steps and flags mitigation‑credit shortages

Bill Ryan, deputy director of the Aquatic Resource Management Program at the Department of State Lands, walked the committee through the removal‑fill permit process, including completeness review, alternatives analysis and compensatory mitigation. He told lawmakers that "for most waters of the state, a permit is required when a project involves 50 or more cubic yards of removal or fill," and explained exceptions for essential salmon habitat and state scenic waterways where any amount triggers permit requirements.